Just 120 km south of Sydney sits Kiama, the beach town known for cliffside cavers the Kiama Blowhole and Little Blowhole. If you’d prefer to work up a sweat, there’s the 20 km Kiama Coastal Walk, stretching between Minamurra and Werri Beach. Plus plenty of beaches to choose from, like main drag Surf Beach.

Sitting in Shoalhaven on the South Coast is Jervis Bay. With its crystalline waters paired with bright white sands (most evident at Hyams Beach) this place is certainly easy on the eyes. Throw in a handful of national parks, a lighthouse, and a brewery and you have the makings of a great beachside escape.

Sapphire Coast resident Merimbula may boast a slew of beautiful beaches and lakes, but it’s seafood for which it’s famed. No trip to this part of the world is complete without indulging in some oysters – it’s the region’s specialty after all. Or paying a visit to one of this stylish coastal town’s many wine bars.

Thirroul and neighbouring Austinmer are easily one of New South Wales’ best beach towns. Especially if you’re a coffee fan – after all, this beachside stretch nudging Newcastle is home to an impressive number of outstanding cafes. But it’s not just beach and coffee, Thirroul hosts plenty of boutiques to peruse, and sits on the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Just 2.5 hours from Sydney’s skyscrapers, Port Stephens isn’t far from the NSW capital but seems a million miles away. There’s coastal walks, national parks, and plenty of beaches, with Nelson Bay a standout. Spend days swimming at Little Beach Reserve, or viewing Gan Gan Lookout, and evenings dining waterside at Little Beach Boathouse.

Based around a point break, Crescent Head on the Macleay Valley Coast, has long been a longboard mecca. But while the surf remains a drawcard, alongside bushwalking trails and 4WD tracks, there are more reasons to visit. Watch out for a growing number of eateries to join Crescent’s much-loved resident bakery, and a slew of newly revamped motels, like Sea Sea.

Tucked into the mid-North Coast, on the edge of the Macleay River is South West Rocks. Outdoors adventure (and plenty of it) awaits here – there’s bushwalking trails to explore, and fishing opportunities galore. Cooling off isn’t a problem either with both beach and creek to choose from. Horseshoe Bay Beach is a sheltered cove fringed by pines, or family favourite Back Creek.

Surging popularity has seen Byron’s near neighbour Yamba go from quiet fishing village to bustling beach town. For good reason – the beach, adjoining ocean pool, and surf breaks make it family friendly. Plus there’s plenty to do. Post-surf, have a beer at the iconic Pacific Hotel on the front, or linger over brunch at all day eatery Beachwood.

While no longer a hidden gem, a former hippie haven turned chic beach town, Byron Bay remains a popular coastal escape. It’s no surprise considering the Northern Rivers gem houses a cluster of jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches (Wategos and Whites included), and a growing number of design-savvy hotels and eateries. It also helps that it’s less than an hour from two airports – the Gold Coast and Ballina.

Within arm’s reach of Byron (30 minutes to be exact) resides the far more covert Cabarita. Though small in stature it’s not limited in offerings when it comes to where to surf or stay – this is the home of adored break (and swim spot) Norries Headland, and luxe oasis Halcyon House with adjoining restaurant Paper Daisy.

On the far South Coast is where you’ll find Narooma, another of the best NSW beach towns. This place is a waterman’s wonderland courtesy of being nestled among a cluster of lakes, rivers, and the ocean. Don’t miss the ancient Glasshouse Rocks and Pillow Lava, though animal lovers will prefer neighbouring Montague Island which penguins, seabirds, dolphins and whales all frequent. You’ll even have a chance to snorkel alongside the resident colony of seals if you choose.

Nestled between the sparkling waters of Lake Macquarie and the open expanse of the Pacific, Swansea is a hidden gem that beautifully captures the sun-kissed magic of the surrounding region. Complete your visit with a trip to the famous sea caves, Wallarah National Park and Catherine Hill Bay Beach.

If quaint is your cup of tea make way straight for Wooli. Boasting both river and ocean access, this town is famously popular among fishermen and increasingly among families too. Spend your time throwing a line into the calm waters of the Wooli Wooli river (so nice they named it twice), or heading to the surf around the corner at Wilsons Headland. If you’re keen for a day out of the water, give the iconic Wilsons Headland walking track a crack.

This small surf town is a resident of laidback Nambucca Shire and while it’s not overflowing in eateries, it’s the kind of old school beach-based destination that demands you kick back and relax. The main beach here is a lengthy one (stretching 9 kilometres), making it a dream for surfers, beachwalkers, and sunbathers alike. Not to mention the public facilities are ample for encouraging time spent out of doors; public barbecues, water fountains and picnic tables scatter the shoreline.

If a more remote getaway is what you crave, look to Seal Rocks. The rugged cliffs here are punctuated by an historic lighthouse (built in 1874) and its adjoining cottages, which form one of the area’s heritage accommodation options. While the intermediate surf is well-regarded in this Barrington Coast town, so too is Myall Lakes National Park, where bushwalking and kayaking trails, and fishing spots are ample.